So,
I changed the valve cover gasket on my e90 that had been leaking oil for a while. (That was a PITA itself, since I had a broken bolt). I get it all changed, and all back together, start it up, and it runs like Sh*$t. It runs, but has a real rough idle, and when rev-ing it up, it is real rough. Idles barely around 600rpms.
Any ideas on what is up? The plugs are new....PLEASE HELP! I dont want to have to take it to the stealer!

So now, I get a grinding noise, sounds like it is coming from the alternator? It didnt happen until I hosed down the engine with degreaser (because of the leaking gasket) and now I have a grinding sound....Its got 104,xxx miles on it...probably due for one anyway.

Hey Kev325i, Any tips on replacing the valve cover gasket? I am about to tackle this project and am trying to see exactly how to do it. Thanks! My email is blah937@yahoo.com if anyone has any tips for me.